The early bird catches the worm: What Martin Viessmann has done in recent decades to make the family business of the same name more sustainable has also been done by other companies. However, Viessmann was often earlier, sometimes even much earlier.

Back in 1985, the heating and air-conditioning technology company from North Hesse appointed an environmental officer. It issued environmental statements as early as 1995, and introduced the EU Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) much earlier than others. In the 2000s, Martin Viessmann initiated the „Efficiency Plus“ sustainability project. And the company invested 220 million euros in the modernisation of its headquarters in Allendorf. On the one hand, the aim is to expand the use of renewable energies and, on the other, to consume less energy. By utilising modern technology, Viessmann is already able to achieve the reduction targets for CO2 emissions and fossil fuel consumption in the short term, which Germany will only be able to achieve in the long term.

Viessmann is also earlier on the market than its competitors, with a number of climate-friendly heating technology products. In order to produce them, the company buys in the missing technology.

Martin Viessmann joined the company managed by his father back in 1979. After graduating with a degree in business administration, he reportedly wanted to study engineering but then started his career in the family business at the age of 26. Even in his role as commercial managing director, he pushed for the manufacture of energy-efficient and resource-saving products and heating systems. In 1992, he took over the management of the company, having previously completed a doctorate at the University of Innsbruck.

As CEO, he mainly pushed ahead with internationalisation. He is involved in dialogue with politicians, and for example takes part in the National Energy Summit. Viessmann's commitment to climate protection and sustainability has been recognised with numerous awards, from the German Sustainability Award, the BAUM Environmental Award, and the Energy Efficiency Award, to being named Greentech Manager of the Year. In 2017, he initiated the generational transition, with the appointment of his son Maximilian as Co-CEO, and focussed on his work on the Board of Directors.

The sale of the primary revenue driver, the air conditioning technology division, including heat pumps, to the US group Carrier Global for 12 billion euros in 2023 generated plenty of public interest, and big headlines. However, Martin Viessmann and his son remain just as entrepreneurial as before. With the new capital, the company quickly acquired several investments in companies that are themselves sustainably positioned: The wind power company Encavis, the disinfectant manufacturer Schülke, the hydraulics company Landefeld, and the insulation and cooling system company KPS Global. It's no longer just about energy efficiency. But it is still about sustainable business models.